Loeken and Konow shine in Pinzolo as the 2024-25 Telemark World Cup kicks off

The Telemark World Cup season opened with an exhilarating first round in Pinzolo, Italy, on December 20–21, 2024. For the second year running, this vibrant Italian village hosted the world’s best telemark athletes, cementing its reputation as a must-visit stop on the circuit. With participants from 12 nations, including Andorra, Canada, France, and Norway, Pinzolo proved once again to be a passionate hub for telemark skiing.

Sprint race 1: a battle against the elements

The season opener wasn’t without its challenges, as high winds and heavy snowfall threatened to derail the first day of racing. Yet, against all odds, the Pinzolo organizing team delivered a thrilling competition that left spectators on the edge of their seats.

In the women’s race, Great Britain’s Jasmin Taylor showcased her resilience, clinching victory ahead of France’s Augustine Carliez and Camille Bourbon, with Norway’s Kaja Bjoernstad Konow in fourth.

On the men’s side, Norway’s Trym Nygaard Loeken emerged victorious, outpacing the French trio of Yoann Rostolan, Noé Claye, and Alexis Page. Meanwhile, Switzerland’s Nicolas Michel, returning after two years sidelined by knee injuries, delivered an impressive fifth-place finish.

Michel expressed his joy at being back:
"I'm very happy to be able to take the start again, it's clear that there will be a bit of respect at the beginning but if the sensations are good then the limits disappear and the race beast makes its comeback."

Sprint race 2: a day of redemption

The second day brought redemption for Norway’s Kaja Bjoernstad Konow, who claimed victory in the women’s race. France’s Argeline Tan Bouquet took second, with Taylor settling for third. Konow praised the competitive atmosphere:
"The results have been so close, so I think this will be an exciting season with many potential names that can win."

For the men, it was all about Trym Nygaard Loeken, who doubled down with another commanding performance. Italy’s Raphael Mahlknecht delighted the home crowd with a second-place finish, while Switzerland’s Nicolas Michel secured third, completing his remarkable comeback.

Rising stars and looking ahead

Among the juniors, Canada’s Adrian Ball showcased his potential with back-to-back solid finishes, placing 14th and 12th. The young talent remains optimistic:
"Every finish is a step closer to the podium. With more experience, I know I can break into the top 10. Can’t wait for the next race!"

With two action-packed days of racing, Pinzolo once again proved itself as a true telemark racing mecca. A heartfelt thank you goes out to the organizing committee and the 100+ volunteers who made this event possible.

The Telemark World Cup now heads to Carezza, Italy, for the next round on January 15–16, 2025.